How do I contact my nearest Ontario MTO office?

Who can bring me for my written (G1) test in Ontario?

If you are under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must bring you.

Do I need a physical when getting my licence in Ontario?

No, a physical isn’t required in order to get your licence in Ontario.

Will a vision test be necessary when I go in to apply for my Ontario driver’s licence?

Absolutely. The vision test is required when you go in to take your written test. It is all a part of acquiring your G1 licence.

Where do I go to get my Ontario driver’s licence picture taken?

Your driver’s licence photo will be taken at your local MTO office.

How do I get a licence in Ontario?

Applying for a licence in Ontario is about a 24 month process. There are steps put into place that allow you to easily transition into becoming a responsible licenced driver. You will….

First: Take and pass a written exam that will give you a G1 licence.

Second: Hold your G1 licence for at least 12 months. (Certain restrictions apply with this licence such as no driving without a G licenced driver with at least 4 years of experience in the front seat with you at all times), OR take a driver’s education course at a driving school and wait only 8 months

How Can I Get Ready for my Ontario Permit Test? Frequently Asked Questions

What is a G1 licence?

G1 is the first step in Ontario’s graduated licensing system. It allows you to practice your driving skills with a supervising licenced driver who has held a G licence for at least 4 years. They must sit in the front seat with you at all times.

Are there any restrictions with a G1 licence?

Yes. Since this is your first step, there are restrictions put in place designed to keep you safe and help you ease into the responsibilities of driving.

You must maintain a 0% BAC level.

The front seat next to you must always be occupied by a supervising G licence driver at all times.

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 am.

You may not drive on any 400 series highways and high speed expressways unless with a certified licence instructor.

What do I need to study for the Ontario written test?

Be aware that the Ontario written test comes in two parts. One part covers Ontario’s rules of the road and the other part covers traffic signs. The driver’s manual and practice tests found here, on find-a-driving-school.ca, are the best sources when preparing for the written test. You can trust that all of the questions will come directly from the manual.

What will be on the Ontario written test?

What are the benefits of driver’s education when getting a licence in Ontario?

The benefits are awesome! You could get your licence more quickly. Taking driver’s education from a properly accredited MTO school will reduce your G1 licence wait time by 4 months. You can learn how to be a safe and skilled driver. Not to mention, having driver’s education could save you tons of money on your car insurance.

Should I read the entire Ontario driver’s handbook in order to pass the knowledge test?

You are advised to do so by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario. It is the surest way of being able to answer any possible question that could arise on the exam. Pay attention to Chapters 2, 3, and 6 for specifics about what will be expected on the road test. Also, study information regarding road signs, passing, braking, one-way streets, speed control, other vehicles, defensive driving, intersections, accidents, adverse weather, road work, proper insurance, BAC level and more.

Is there a mobile Ontario practice test app for my iPhone/iPad?

Yes, you can download the FREE 40-question version here, or get the FULL 200-question app here!

What will I have to do the day I go in for my written test?

You will have to take a vision test, road sign test and rules of the road test.

What sort of questions can I expect on the Ontario written test?

Questions will cover different areas. Sample questions may be similar to:

“When a red X is over a driving lane, you ____.”

“What documents may a police officer ask you to show?”

“When another vehicle wants to pass, you ________?”

“You should________before moving from a parked position.”

How is the Ontario written test graded?

The test has a total of 40 questions. The 40 questions are divided into 2 sections with 20 questions per section. You must score 16 questions per section correctly.

Are there any free Ontario practice G1 tests online?

There are sites out there that claim to offer state-of-the-art practice tests. However, our FREE G1 Practice Tests (see the buttons above) have proven to be 100% effective.

Where do I go for my knowledge test in Ontario?

Written tests for licences are issued at DriveTest centres. Find one near you.

Are there any tips on what I should do the night before my Ontario permit test?

Remember that the night before should be used as a time for review not cramming. Look over topics you may have had difficulty with.

What’s the average number of people who pass their Ontario written test on the first try?

Ontario safely issued an average of 20,000 G1 licences per month in 2012. Studies show that the most licences tend to be issued in the months of July and August.

When can I move on to a G2 licence?

-- Have you held your licence for at least 12 months? -- Do you have a 0% BAC level on record? -- Have you gotten a lot of behind the wheel training and practice within the past 12 months? If you answered YES to these questions, then you are ready to proceed in getting your G2 licence.

I’m ready for my Ontario G1 test, what should I do next?

Once you have thoroughly read the handbook, go ahead and prepare to take the test. There is no need for an appointment. Just show up at a DriveTest centre with documents that prove your full legal name, date of birth and original signature. You will also need to bring your $10 knowledge test fee.

What is the difference between a G1, G2 and G licence in Ontario?

A G1 licence is the first licence you receive in Ontario’s graduated licensing system. It is issued after you have passed the knowledge and vision tests. With this licence, you can only drive in the car with a G licenced driver who has held their licence at least 4 years.

A G2 licence is the second licence you receive in the graduated licensing system. It is issued to you after you pass the first G1 road test. There are still some restrictions with this licence, such as no driving between midnight and 5 am, but at least you can drive alone with this licence. You must wait at least 12 months after having received your G1 licence before you can be eligible for a this type of licence.

A G licence (a.k.a. “Full G”) is the final stage in Ontario’s graduated licensing system. It is received after you have taken the G2 road test. This licence has no restrictions.

Why are there so many steps before getting a regular G licence in Ontario?

Ontario uses the graduated licensing system as a way of easing new drivers onto the road. This system has proven to reduce accidents as well as comfortably prepare new drivers for the responsibilities of the road.

Frequently Asked Questions about Taking Your Ontario Permit Test

Where do I go for my written test in Ontario?

When you are ready to take your exam, go to your local DriveTest Centre. No appointment is necessary but you should arrive at least 1 hour before the test centre closes in order to ensure that you have enough time to complete your test.

When am I allowed to get my G1 licence in Ontario?

The licensing process can begin at age 16.

Are there any specific documents I should have when I go to take my written test in Ontario?

Yes. When you go in to apply for your licence, you are required to have documents that show your:

Legal Name

Date of Birth

Original Signature

These can be documents such as a Passport (Canadian or Foreign), Canadian citizenship card with photo, Ontario Photo card, Employee/Student Authorization Form, or etc.

How much does a G1 licence cost?

The G1 licence packet costs $148.75. This includes $15.5 for the knowledge test, $51.75 for the Class G2 Road Test, and $81.50 for the licence which is valid for 5 years.

How many questions are there on the written test?

The written test consists of 2 sections with 20 questions in each section. So, Ontario has a total of 40 questions on the written licence exam.

What’s the number of questions I am allowed to miss on the Ontario G1 test?

There are 2 sections to the Ontario G1 test: Road Signs and Rules of the Road. Each section consists of 20 questions. You are only allowed to miss 4 questions from each section.

What common mistakes do people make on the Ontario written test?

Can you guess the biggest mistake people make on their Ontario written test? Here’s a hint: it’s made before the test ever begins….lack of preparation. People fail when they go in without studying the manual and taking the practice tests. You can avoid this mistake by preparing yourself.

Can I use the manual on the actual Ontario written test?

No. You are being tested on what you can recall from the manual. This test is all about measuring your ability to remember the rules of the road. Using the manual on the test would be impractical. If you study and prepare yourself, you will do an amazing job without the assistance of the manual.

Will I be given a drug test before I can get my Ontario licence?

You will not have to submit to a drug test in order to get your Ontario licence.

Where can I see some feedback from people who have already passed their Ontario G1 test?

What happens if I fail the Ontario knowledge test?

Failing the knowledge test isn’t the end of the world. It just means you will have to plan to come again another day for your test.

How soon can I take the Ontario knowledge test if I fail?

You are free to take the knowledge test again whenever you are ready. You may want to use a little extra time to study areas where you missed questions.

Who can ride in the car with me with a G1 licence?

If you only hold a G1 licence, you must have a G licenced driver with at least 4 years of experience sitting next to you. Besides this person, you may have as many passengers as there are seat belts in the vehicle with you.

Who can be in the car with me while holding a G2 licence?

For the first 6 months, drivers under 19 cannot carry more than one passenger under the age of 19 between midnight and 5 am. After the first 6 months, they cannot carry more than 3 passengers under the age of 19 between midnight and 5 am.

Where am I allowed to drive in Ontario with a G1 licence?

You may drive anywhere you like except for on 400 series highways and expressways. You also may not drive between midnight and 5am. If your accompanying driver is a driving instructor, you may drive on any road.

What happens after I pass my knowledge test in Ontario?

After you pass your knowledge test in Ontario, you will get a licence called a G1 licence. You may begin using this licence to drive with. You may drive on most roads as long as there is a G licenced driver with at least 4 years of experience sitting next to you at all times. You may not drive on any 400 series expressways such as Don Valley Parkway, Queen Elizabeth Expressway and etc. You have to hold your G1 licence for at least 12 months and should consider enrolling in a driver’s education course. Once your 12 month wait period is over, you may schedule to have your road test.

Getting Ready for Your Ontario Road Test: FAQ

When can I get a regular G licence?

After you have held your G2 licence at least 12 months without any violations, you can take the G2 road test. This licence is free and unrestricted. It will be valid for 5 years. When you make it to this point, drive responsibly!

Is there anything specific I should be practicing to help me develop driving skills for the Ontario road test?

Here’s a word of advice…practice EVERYTHING pertaining to the rules of the road. Sharpening those driving skills are the key to passing the road test. Here are some specific skills you should be practicing. Your practice should not be limited to this though. A good driving mentor should be able to properly guide you on additional skills.

Practice signaling, entering and leaving turns in the proper lane.

Practice driving through intersections at the proper speed.

Become acquainted with different types of intersections and how to react in situations involving pedestrians and other vehicles.

Practice speed and space control.

Become familiar with how to react at various road signs

How much does a G2 test cost?

$75

Can I practice driving anywhere in Ontario?

This will depend on which licence you hold. If you hold only a G1 licence, you may not drive on any 400 series expressways or highways unless accompanied by a driving instructor. Other than that, you can drive anywhere with a G licenced driver who has held their licence at least 4 years. If you hold a G2 licence, you may practice driving anywhere.

Where can I find a driving school in Ontario?

When searching for driving school, you must make certain they are Ministry approved. You will have classroom and behind the wheel training. You may find ministry approved schools at http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/driver/gradu/approve.shtml You can also check out some schools at http://find-a-driving-school.ca/ontario/

What things will I be expected to do on the Ontario road test?

On the G2 road test, you can expect to demonstrate the following:

Proper following distance between vehicles

Parallel parking

Proper Lane changing

Frequent and exaggerated blind spot checks

Defensive driving techniques

Navigating through an intersection

3 point turn arounds

And more…..

On the G road test, you will be expected to drive on the expressway. Before the test begins, you will have to state how many times in the past three months you have driven on a 400-series highway or highway with a speed limit of 80km/hr. You will have been expected to have done the above at least 5 times. Road tests last about 20 to 30 minutes.

Are there any suggestions on what to do the night before my Ontario road test?

Be prepared to arrive at least 30 minutes early for your exam. This will give you time to check in before your test. If possible, use the night before your Ontario road test as one more practice session. Relax, think positive and get a good night’s rest.

How do I schedule a driving test in Ontario?

You may call the Call Centre at 1-888-570-6110 or 416-325-8580 to book a road test, or you can visit a DriveTest Centre in person. You may also conveniently book online at https://www.rtbo.rus.mto.gov.on.ca/scripts/english/index.asp

Who may bring me for my road test in Ontario?

G1 drivers must be accompanied by a G licenced driver who has had their licence for at least four years.

What must I bring with me the day of my road test?

Bring your vehicle and current licence.

Where is the easiest place to take the road test in Ontario?

Some believe that Aurora, Simcoe, and possibly any place in Northern Ontario are the easiest places to take the road test. Anywhere out of the city may be the easiest places because there is less traffic to contend with. Consider this, if you need an “easy” place for your road test, you may not be ready for the realities and responsibilities of the road.

What can I do in order to pass the Ontario road test the first time?

Adequately prepare yourself and show the examiner that you are well alert and well aware of the road. Since Ontario’s expectations are different from those in other providences, you will do well to read Chapters 2, 3 and 6 of the MTO Driver’s Handbook to see what will be expected on the road test.

What things should I keep in mind when taking my driver’s test in Ontario?

Here are some tips that will help you look great in front of the examiner.

Give exaggerated head movements in order to show that you are aware of the traffic around you.

Try to drive the exact speed limit. It’ ok to drive a little under just don’t go over. Also make sure that your speed is practical for the situation.

Use, use, use those turn signals

Drive slowly through parking lots

Follow the rules of merging and exiting from a highway

What common mistakes would cause me to fail the Ontario road test?

We know you want to do your best to not make any mistakes that would cause you to fail your road test. Here are errors that applicants seem to make often:

Recklessly changing lanes by not observing blind spots

Making “rolling” stops instead of complete stops at stop signs.

Turning into the wrong lane

Disrupting traffic by going too slow

Merging onto a highway more slowly than the speed of the highway traffic

Riding with distractions in the car

Speeding

Lack of vehicle control

What will I have to do when I take the driver’s test in Ontario?

Don’t worry about being confused on what to do during your driving exam. Before the test begins, the driver examiner will explain to you everything you will be required to do. You will be asked 2 questions before the test begins:

Do you require glasses or corrective lenses for driving?

Do you suffer, or have you ever been advised by a physician that you suffer from heart disease, stroke, diabetes requiring insulin to control, epilepsy, seizure disorder, loss of consciousness or awareness, or any other medical condition or physical disability that may affect your safe operation of a motor vehicle?

Your vehicle will be checked in order to see if it properly functions. You will then proceed in showing the examiner how well you do the following: -- Use your signal and brake lights -- Use your accelerator and brakes -- Adjust safety devices -- Back up -- Observe other cars -- Overtake and pass other vehicles -- Obey all traffic signs and laws

Do I have to Parallel Park on the Ontario road test?

Yes, you will be required to parallel park. Here’s an important tip…remember to use your signal light while parallel parking.

Will I have to wear contacts/glasses when taking my Ontario road test?

Only if you normally use glasses or contacts to see with. In fact, one of the first two questions the examiner will ask is if you wear glasses or contacts.

Will anyone be allowed in the car with me during my Ontario road test?

No, only you and the examiner will be in the car during the road test.

What happens if I fail my driver’s test in Ontario numerous times?

Take it again….there is no limit to the number of times you can take the road test.

What do I do after I pass my Ontario road test?

Congratulations on passing your road test. After you pass the G1 road test, you will be issued a G2 licence that you must hold at least 12 months. Once you pass your G2 test and get a G licence, you may drive with no restrictions.

Are there any limitations on my Ontario driver’s licence after I get it?

When you receive your G2 licence there will be limitations such as:

During the first 6 months, you cannot have more than 1 passenger 19 or younger between midnight and 5 a.m.

After 6 months you cannot have more than 3 passengers 19 and younger from midnight to 5 a.m.

You cannot drink before driving

All passengers must be in seatbelts

What things should I keep in mind when driving in Ontario for the first time?

Ontario is glad to have you and wants you to have a pleasant experience while there. Always have proper proof of insurance in your vehicle. Enjoy the sights, but always remember that traffic in Ontario can be different than in other places. Be sure to check mirrors frequently. Often times, accidents occur because drivers did not religiously check their blind spots. You will be sharing the road with various other motorists so be on the look out for big trucks, buses and cyclists. Your best bet is to drive defensively. There is no way of telling what another driver may do. Aside from these tips, the most important thing to keep in mind is to be safe and have a great time.

Is car insurance easy to get in Ontario?

Getting car insurance is easy; however, finding the perfect one for you will require some shopping around. Ontario has over 140 private insurance companies eager to meet your insurance needs. Contact the Insurance Broker Association of Canada at www.ibac.ca to find help with choosing the right insurance company.

Do I need any documents in particular when getting auto insurance in Ontario?

Be prepared to have information such as:

Your licence number

Car description (Odometer number, VIN Number, year, make and model)

Your address

Number of kilometers you travel on average

Take note that every province has its own licensing body for agents and brokers. If you need to verify whether an insurance agent or broker is licenced to sell in your province, contact your province’s licensing body for more information.

How can I keep my car insurance cost low in Ontario?

Everyone’s eager to know ways to keep car insurance costs down. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, you can keep your cost low by:

Increasing your deductible

Buying a car with a lower-cost insurer rating

Installing an approved theft deterrent system

Dropping collision or comprehensive coverage for an older vehicle

Speak with an agent to figure out other wise ways to reduce auto insurance costs in Ontario.

Where is the cheapest car insurance in Ontario? Where do I get it?

Do your homework before selecting a car insurance company in Ontario. Rates will vary SO much from company to company. A site such as www.pcinsurance.ca/english/auto-insurance/auto and www.belairdirect.com can do a great deal of the leg work for you.

Why is the car insurance expensive in Ontario for new drivers?

Whether the driver is new or seasoned, Ontarians tend to pay more for car insurance than drivers in other provinces. Studies show that they tend to file more claims there. According to a statement given by the auditor general, the average cost of accident injury claims is five times higher in Ontario than in other provinces. Ontario has more car thefts as well as more staged accidents. Not to mention, new drivers tend to have higher accident rates. These are the primary reasons why you will have to pay more here. With patience and research, there are ways to save on your car insurance both now and in the future. Simple steps such as driving a hybrid and maintaining a clean driving record could make a difference in your premiums. Compare companies on websites such as http://www.completeinsurance.ca/.

How Can I Renew My Driver’s licence In Ontario? Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do when it is time to renew my Ontario driver’s licence?

You should get a renewal application or postcard in the mail about 60 to 90 days prior to the expiry date. You will take the application or postcard to the Driver and Vehicle licence Issuing Office. You must be able to show identification and pay the $75 renewal fee.

Where do I go to renew my Ontario driver’s licence?

You can renew your licence at a Driver and Vehicle licence Issuing Office.

Do I need to take an eye exam when renewing my Ontario driver’s licence?

I’m Moving to Ontario! Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pass a road test when I move to Ontario from another province, for example Quebec?

You do not have to take a road test if you meet the following criteria:

Have at least 2 years of experience within the past 3 years.

Can provide appropriate identification documents

Can provide proof of licence status

Can pass a vision test

If you have less than 2 years of experience, you can trade in your licence for a G2 licence and will eventually have to take a road test in order to get a G licence.

If I move to Ontario, how long may I drive with my non-province licence?

Newcomers to Ontario from another province have 60 days after becoming a resident to apply for an Ontario licence.

How long can I drive with my out-of-country licence while visiting Ontario?

You may drive up to 3 months with your out-of-country licence. After 3 months, you must have an International Driver’s Permit from your home country or you can apply for an Ontario licence.

If I move to Ontario, how long can I legally drive with my out-of-country licence?

If you move to Ontario, you have 60 days after arrival to apply for an Ontario Driver’s licence. You may simply exchange your valid driver’s licence for a G licence if you meet the following criteria:

You hold a driver’s licence from a reciprocating jurisdiction such as Europe, the United States, Canadian provinces or territories, Great Britain, Isle of Man, Korea, Japan, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Australia and etc (others can be found on the MTO website www.drivetest.ca)

You have had the licence for more than 2 years within the last 3 years

You are able to present acceptable original identification for proof of legal name, date of birth and signature ( Find identification requirements at http://www.drivetest.ca/en/license/HowToApply.aspx

You are willing to surrender your current licence

Possibly be willing to provide an abstract of driving history (required in some districts, find out if it is needed in your district at http://www.drivetest.ca/en/license/ExchangeReciprocal.aspx )

Take a vision test

Pay a licensing fee

If you have a valid licence but have less than 2 years of experience in the last 3 years, you will be eligible for a G2 licence. The same conditions mentioned above apply. If you are from a non-reciprocating country, find out information about what you should do at http://www.drivetest.ca/en/license/OutOfCountryDrivers.aspx

Where can I find more driving-related information about moving to Ontario?

Feel free to browse the Ministry of Transportation website at http://www.mto.gov.on.ca. Also, you can find additional information at www.drivetest.ca or call 1-800-387-3445.

General Questions About Ontario Driving licence

When is it legal to drive in Ontario?

The legal age to drive begins at 16.

What is the legal limit for drinking and driving in Ontario?

There is ZERO tolerance for drinking and driving in Ontario for young drivers under 21. If you are under 21 years old, you must maintain a BAC level of 0%. If you are caught with any alcohol in your system, you could face a fine and immediate licence suspension. If you are over 21, the limit is .05%.

What do I do if I lose my Ontario licence?

If you lose your licence, you should go to any Service Ontario Driver and Vehicle licence Issuing Office to have your licence replaced. You will have to have another picture taken. You will need identification that shows your legal name, date of birth and signature. Don’t forget to bring the $10 replacement fee.